If you’re planning to visit or stay in Malta in 2025, understanding the visa application process is essential for a smooth experience. Malta, a member of the European Union, offers both short and long-term visas for tourists, students, workers, and others. Whether you’re traveling for leisure, business, or education, securing the correct visa is the first step to ensuring a successful trip.
This guide will help you navigate the Malta visa application process in 2025, outlining the requirements, types of visas available, and step-by-step instructions for applying.
Types of Visas for Malta in 2025
1. Short-Stay Visa (Schengen Visa)
- Duration: Up to 90 days
- For tourism, business meetings, or short visits to Malta
- Allows travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period
- Suitable for those visiting Malta for tourism, business, or family visits
2. Long-Stay Visa (National Visa)
- Duration: Longer than 90 days
- For people planning to stay in Malta for employment, studies, or family reunification
- Requires approval from the Malta Residency Agency (MRA)
3. Malta Student Visa
- For students wishing to pursue higher education in Malta
- Allows students to stay for the duration of their course (more than 90 days)
- Proof of enrollment at a recognized educational institution required
Malta Visa Requirements 2025
When applying for a visa to Malta, whether for a short stay or a long-term stay, you will need to provide several key documents and meet specific criteria.
1. Valid Passport
Your passport must:
- Be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay
- Have at least two blank pages for visa stamps
- Be issued within the last 10 years
2. Visa Application Form
Complete the Schengen visa application form for short stays or the National visa application form for long stays. Ensure that the form is filled out correctly and signed.
3. Passport-Sized Photographs
You will need to submit two recent passport-sized photos that meet the Schengen visa photo requirements.
4. Travel Insurance
For both short and long-stay visas, you must provide:
- Travel health insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation.
5. Proof of Accommodation
You must show that you have arranged accommodation during your stay in Malta, such as:
- Hotel bookings
- Rental agreement
- Invitation from a host in Malta (with a copy of their ID)
6. Financial Proof
You need to show that you can financially support yourself during your stay in Malta. This can include:
- Bank statements from the past 3 months
- Pay slips (for workers)
- Proof of scholarships or financial support (for students)
7. Flight Reservation
Provide a flight reservation or a confirmed ticket to and from Malta. You may also need to show evidence of transportation for the duration of your stay.
8. Supporting Documents for Specific Visas
- Tourism: A detailed itinerary of your stay
- Business: Invitation letter from a business or company in Malta
- Students: Enrollment letter from a recognized educational institution in Malta
- Work or Family Visa: Employment contract or family relationship proof
Steps to Apply for a Malta Visa in 2025
Step 1: Determine the Type of Visa You Need
Identify whether you need a short-stay visa (Schengen visa) or a long-stay visa (national visa) depending on the length and purpose of your stay.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Collect all the necessary documents as mentioned above, including your passport, photos, visa application form, proof of accommodation, insurance, and financial documents.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
- Short-Stay Visa: Schedule an appointment at your nearest Malta consulate or visa application center (VFS Global, TLScontact, etc.)
- Long-Stay Visa: You may need to apply directly through the Malta Residency Agency or the Immigration Department.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Submit your visa application in person at the consulate or visa application center, or follow the instructions for submitting a national visa application for longer stays.
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
Visa fees vary depending on the type of visa:
- Short-Stay Visa: Around €60
- Long-Stay Visa: Typically between €100–€150, depending on the type of visa
Step 6: Attend the Interview (if applicable)
For some visa types, you may need to attend an interview at the consulate or visa center. Be prepared to answer questions regarding your travel plans, financial situation, and accommodation.
Step 7: Wait for Processing
Visa processing times typically take:
- Short-Stay Visa: Around 15 calendar days
- Long-Stay Visa: Approximately 4–8 weeks
Step 8: Receive Your Visa
Once your visa is approved, you will receive your visa sticker in your passport. Make sure to double-check that all details are correct.
Important Tips for a Successful Malta Visa Application
- Apply Early: Start your application at least 3 weeks before your intended travel date for short-stay visas, and 3 months for long-stay visas.
- Accurate Documentation: Ensure all documents are accurate and up-to-date. Missing or incorrect documents can lead to delays or visa rejection.
- Cover All Costs: Provide sufficient financial proof showing you can support yourself while in Malta.
- Follow Specific Requirements: Each type of visa may have different requirements, so ensure that you’re meeting the specific criteria for your visa type.
FAQs – Malta Visa Application Process 2025
1. Can I apply for a Malta visa online?
You can complete the visa application form online through the Malta visa website, but you must submit your documents in person at the consulate or visa center.
2. How long does it take to process a Malta visa?
A short-stay visa usually takes around 15 days, while a long-stay visa can take up to 8 weeks.
3. Can I extend my Malta visa once it expires?
If you are on a short-stay Schengen visa, extensions are typically not allowed, but you can apply for a long-stay visa if your stay needs to be extended.
4. Do I need a visa if I’m from an EU country?
If you are from an EU/EEA member country or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to enter Malta.
5. Can I work in Malta with a tourist visa?
No, a tourist visa does not permit you to work in Malta. You must apply for a work visa if you plan to work in Malta.
Conclusion
The Malta visa application process in 2025 is straightforward as long as you follow the required steps and submit all necessary documents. Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, studying, or working, it’s crucial to apply for the correct visa type and plan ahead to ensure a smooth experience.
By gathering the right documents, submitting your application on time, and meeting the necessary criteria, you can look forward to your trip to Malta and the experiences that await you.
